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alexandra
 Alexandra
is the Spring Blossom Festival town in the golden heart of
Central Otago.
This attractive town nestles at the head of Lake Roxburgh and is
affectionately called ‘Alex’, by the locals. It is the
commercial centre for a prosperous fruit growing and farming
area. The world’s finest merino wool is produced here and in
September each year the annual Golden Shears Championships are
held.
This is an area of fascinating contrasts. Alexandra is an oasis
of flourishing orchards among barren hills and mounds of tailings
from the mining era. The surrounding high country is red and
brown tussock, and has unusual formations of schist rock. Gold
bearing rivers irrigate fertile valleys where stone fruit and
grapevines are grown. Early colonial buildings and modern
shopping plazas stand side by side in the centre of town.
The special appeal of Central Otago is its unique blend of
climate and landscape. This is the only part of New Zealand that
has a continental climate. In summer visitors enjoy sunny days
and high temperatures. In autumn the willow and poplar trees are
ablaze with burnished gold and amber. In winter cool days bring
clear blue skies. In spring blossoms burst forth to form a
dazzling landscape, welcoming the festival crowds.
Pioneering relics in the Historical Museum and Art Gallery
portray Alexandra’s colourful history. Tucker Hill lookout
provides an excellent bird’s-eye view of the town and the
‘Shaky Bridge’ is an original suspension bridge that
once carried bullock wagons. The Hillside Clock, Arts and Crafts
Studio and the Dredge Tailings Reserve are other interesting
places to explore.
The area is heaven for mountain bike, horse trek and four-wheel
drive enthusiasts. The ultimate challenge is the rugged mountain
road known as the Dunstan Trail. Tussock covered rolling hills
provide thrilling rides over the Old Man, Raggedy and Knobby
Ranges. In winter local lakes become ice skating rinks, and snow
skidoo and cross-country ski trips can take you high into the
mountains. All year round trout fishing is outstanding here.
Discover this special place and you will take home a part of
Central Otago in your heart.
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